Dalton Lake Campground
4.0013 reviewsDalton Lake Campground, Dalton Lake Rd, Nemo, SD
Dalton Lake Campground
$18.00 - $21.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for single unit camping is $18, with an additional charge of $2 per pet per night.
About this campground
Step into a piece of living history at Dalton Lake Campground, where the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every stone and timber. Built by the hands of young men during the Great Depression (1934-1937), this intimate 11-site retreat offers a rare glimpse into America's conservation heritage. Towering spruce and fir trees create a natural cathedral overhead, while carefully maintained grassy meadows beneath give the grounds an enchanting, park-like atmosphere. Each site offers its own character—some tucked away in private forest nooks, others more open and social. The shimmering waters of Dalton Lake beckon just steps away, while the legendary Centennial Trail winds through the forest, inviting exploration.
Dalton Lake Campground offers traditional tent camping and is suitable for small groups. It does not support RV camping, equestrian camping, or glamping.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of the young men who shaped this landscape during America's darkest economic hour. Between 1934 and 1937, the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this wild corner of the Black Hills into a recreational haven, leaving behind masterfully crafted stone bridges that still span mountain streams and a charming sheltered picnic area that has hosted countless family gatherings. Though nature reclaimed some of their work during a dramatic flood in 1972, the remaining structures stand as monuments to their skill and determination—each hand-laid stone a testament to the enduring spirit of the CCC.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Black Hills' dramatic seasonal tapestry at 4,400 feet, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Winter transforms the campground into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the forest floor and temperatures that demand cozy campfires. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers carpet the meadows. Summer brings perfect camping weather with daytime highs reaching a comfortable 75°F, though mountain evenings still call for a warm sweatshirt. Fall arrives in a blaze of golden aspens against evergreen backdrops. Note that seasonal conditions can affect road accessibility—winter adventurers should come prepared for snow-covered routes.
ElevationPerched at 4,400 feet in the heart of the Black Hills, Dalton Lake occupies that sweet spot where mountain magic happens. This elevation gifts campers with crisp, pine-scented air and refreshingly cool nights that make for perfect sleeping weather, even when summer temperatures soar in the valleys below. The altitude creates an ideal climate for the towering spruce and fir that dominate the landscape, while ensuring that evening campfires remain a welcome comfort throughout the camping season.
Natural Features and SceneryDalton Lake Campground feels like nature's own carefully tended garden, where towering spruce and fir trees stand like ancient sentinels over a meticulously groomed understory of emerald grass. The interplay of dappled sunlight and deep forest shade creates an ever-changing mosaic throughout the day. At the heart of it all lies Dalton Lake itself—a pristine mountain gem perfect for peaceful canoe paddles and patient anglers seeking the day's catch. The surrounding forest offers varying degrees of seclusion, from intimate, heavily wooded sites to more open spaces where the park-like ambiance invites neighborly conversations and shared s'mores.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient granite heart of the Black Hills National Forest, Dalton Lake Campground occupies one of North America's oldest mountain ranges. These sacred hills, known to the Lakota as Paha Sapa, rise like an island of pine-covered peaks from the surrounding prairie. The rugged terrain tells a billion-year geological story, while more recent chapters written by the CCC blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Dense ponderosa pine and spruce forests cloak dramatic ridges and hidden valleys, creating a wilderness playground that has captivated visitors for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has a paved wheelchair-friendly path on the side of the lake, making the area partially accessible.
Sites SizeThe campground has 11 sites suitable for small-scale camping.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy of campsites ranges from poor to good, as noted in the general comments.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are nestled among spruce and fir trees, offering varying levels of privacy. Users recommend exploring the campground for quieter spots.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites were not detailed as being the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per single site not specified.
Groups
No information about designated group sites was provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout stretches between Dalton Lake Rd and Dalton Lake with 11 sites, tables, and grilles on each site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 18 through September 10.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are first come, first served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 11 sites are available first come, first served; no reservations accepted. User reviews mention challenges in finding availability during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable since sites are first come, first served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Dalton Lake Campground is known for its fishing opportunities, access to the Centennial Trail, and nearby off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. The campground’s serene lake environment offers a peaceful setting for anglers, while hikers and bikers can explore the adjoining trail network.
Hiking
The Centennial Trail, which spans over 111 miles, is accessible from the nearby Dalton Lake Trailhead. This trail allows for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. To the south of the trail, motorized vehicles under 62 inches are also permitted. A separate network of ATV trails is located near the campground.Fishing
Fishing at Dalton Lake is a popular activity with good shoreline and pier access. The lake, approximately 2.8 acres and 15 feet deep, is home to rainbow and brook trout. Anglers should consult South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks for regulations.Biking
Biking is allowed on the Centennial Trail and other nearby trails. Difficulty levels and terrain details are not specified, though the area is noted for its diverse outdoor recreation opportunities.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing is allowed on Dalton Lake. No boat ramps are provided, but carry-down access is available.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were detailed for Dalton Lake Campground.Water Sports
The lake supports non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking, but motorized water sports are prohibited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not specified.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include challenging road conditions, wildlife such as cougars, and noisy ATV activity reported by users.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Northern Hills Ranger District, Address: 2014 N. Main Street Spearfish, SD 57783, Phone: (605) 642-4622.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated, but peak season aligns with the open season from May 18 to September 10.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned, requiring campers to likely follow pack-in, pack-out principles.
Proximity to water featuresDalton Lake is adjacent to the campground. The lake spans about 2.8 acres and is 15 ft deep, offering fishing and canoeing opportunities.
Common complaintsKey complaints from users include noise from ATVs, lack of potable water, and occasional disturbances from parties and untethered dogs.
HostSome user reviews praise the campground hosts, describing them as helpful and accommodating. However, other reviews criticize the hosts for being absent during key times.
Campground Map
Dalton Lake Campground, Dalton Lake Rd, Nemo, SD
Driving directionsIn Nemo, SD, at the intersection of Nemo Rd. and Vanocker Canyon Rd./Forest Rt. 26, take Rt. 26 east 3.3 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Dalton Lake Rd and go 3.9 miles to campground on left. Dalton Lake Rd. is a single lane dirt road with some pullouts.
The road to the campground, Dalton Lake Rd., is a single lane dirt road with pullouts, which may pose challenges for larger vehicles or during adverse weather conditions.Nearby places
Nemo (approximately 7 miles, roughly 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Nemo (approximately 7 miles away), including basic groceries and fuel. Larger towns like Spearfish may provide wider options (approximately 25 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.0
13 reviews
Dalton Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the campground's peaceful setting, historical appeal, and access to outdoor recreational trails. However, minimal facilities, occasional noise from ATVs, and proximity of sites were noted as downsides.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback included praise for the quiet and scenic environment, friendly and helpful staff, and the campground’s cleanliness. The proximity to hiking and OHV trails was frequently mentioned...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints included the lack of potable water, occasional noise from ATVs, proximity of campsites, and reports of cow dung in the area due to free-roaming cattle. Some reviewers noted that the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water due to the lack of potable water on-site. ATVs and dirt bikes are popular in the area, so prepare for potential noise. Plan to arrive early, as sites are...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground can get cold at night, even in summer due to its elevated location. Summer is the most favorable season for camping, given the open dates from May to September.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Quiet, small campground. No hook ups and minimal facilities but the lake is nice for fishing.'
2. 'The host was nice, the lots were clean and quiet, and I had a wonderful time.'
3. 'It is a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsites were not individually reviewed or mentioned in detail.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes a paved wheelchair-friendly path, but no further details about accessibility specifics were provided.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though one reviewer complained about dogs not being leashed by some campers.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025